Food Thickeners Market by Type (Starch-Based Thickeners, Gelatin-Based Thickeners, Gums & Resins, Agar-Agar, Pectin, Xanthan Gum), by Source (Plant-Based, Animal-Based), by Application (Dairy Products, Beverages, Sauces & Dressings, Soups & Broths, Others), by End-Use Industry (Food & Beverages, Pharmaceuticals, Nutraceuticals); Global Insights & Forecast (2024 - 2030)

As per Intent Market Research, the Food Thickeners Market was valued at USD 11.6 billion in 2023 and will surpass USD 18.5 billion by 2030; growing at a CAGR of 6.9% during 2024 - 2030.

The global food thickeners market is experiencing significant growth driven by the increasing demand for convenience foods, evolving dietary preferences, and the need for enhanced food textures. Food thickeners are used in a wide array of products, including sauces, soups, dairy products, and beverages, to improve consistency, stability, and mouthfeel. With rising consumer interest in clean-label products, natural and plant-based thickeners are becoming particularly popular, catering to health-conscious individuals and those with dietary restrictions. As a result, the food thickeners market is expanding rapidly, with innovations in ingredient formulations and diverse applications across the food and beverage industry.

Starch-Based Thickeners Segment is Largest Owing to Versatility and Cost-Effectiveness

The starch-based thickeners segment holds the largest share in the food thickeners market. Starch is widely used in both food and beverage applications due to its cost-effectiveness, availability, and functional versatility. Derived from various sources like corn, wheat, and potatoes, starch-based thickeners are essential for providing structure and texture to a wide range of food products. Their ability to form gels and emulsions makes them ideal for thickening soups, sauces, gravies, and beverages. Furthermore, starch thickeners offer the added benefit of being relatively inexpensive, which makes them popular among food manufacturers looking to optimize production costs.

The versatility of starch in terms of functional properties has contributed to its dominance in the market. It provides thickening without compromising taste and is widely used in both home cooking and large-scale food processing. This broad applicability and ease of use have made starch-based thickeners a preferred choice in the industry, especially for processed foods and ready-to-eat meals.

Gelatin-Based Thickeners Segment is Fastest Growing Owing to Increasing Demand for Natural Ingredients

The gelatin-based thickeners segment is experiencing the fastest growth, driven by the rising demand for natural and clean-label ingredients. Gelatin, a protein-based thickener derived from animal collagen, is widely used in the production of jellies, gummy candies, desserts, and marshmallows, which are increasingly popular among consumers. The growing interest in gelatin is tied to its ability to provide desirable textures in various food products, especially in confectionery and dessert applications.

With increasing health-consciousness and the shift towards natural ingredients, consumers are seeking alternatives to synthetic additives, which is fostering the demand for gelatin-based thickeners. Moreover, gelatin has applications in the pharmaceutical and nutraceutical sectors, further contributing to its market growth. The rise of sugar-free and low-calorie products, along with the trend toward gelatin-based supplements, is expected to sustain the growth of this segment.

Dairy Products Segment is Largest Application Owing to Demand for Creamy Textures

The dairy products segment is the largest application segment for food thickeners, driven by the growing consumer preference for creamy textures in products such as yogurt, ice cream, and milkshakes. Thickeners are essential in dairy production as they enhance texture, stability, and viscosity, improving the overall quality of dairy-based products. Additionally, thickeners such as xanthan gum and pectin are used in dairy alternatives, such as plant-based milk and dairy-free yogurts, to mimic the creaminess and mouthfeel of traditional dairy.

As consumers continue to embrace dairy products that are rich in texture and flavor, the demand for food thickeners in this segment is expected to rise. Furthermore, the growing trend of lactose-free, low-fat, and organic dairy products is also contributing to the increasing use of thickeners, as manufacturers seek ways to improve product consistency without compromising on taste or quality.

Food & Beverages Industry is Largest End-Use Industry Owing to Widespread Applications

The food & beverages industry is the largest end-use industry for food thickeners, accounting for a substantial share of the market. Food thickeners are widely used in the production of processed foods, beverages, and convenience foods to enhance texture, improve viscosity, and ensure product stability. This industry includes a broad range of applications, from sauces and dressings to beverages, soups, and ready-to-eat meals. The increasing demand for high-quality, texture-enhanced products has significantly contributed to the growing need for food thickeners.

The food & beverages sector continues to be driven by the rising consumer demand for processed, packaged, and convenience foods. The shift toward healthier eating habits and the preference for clean-label, natural products are further fueling the market for food thickeners. The growth in the ready-to-drink beverage market, including smoothies, juices, and plant-based drinks, is also accelerating the demand for thickeners to improve the mouthfeel and texture of these products.

Asia Pacific is Fastest Growing Region Owing to Rising Consumer Demand for Processed Foods

Asia Pacific is the fastest growing region in the global food thickeners market, driven by the increasing demand for processed and convenience foods. As the middle-class population expands in countries like China, India, and Japan, there is a growing demand for packaged foods and beverages, which require thickeners for enhanced texture and quality. Additionally, the rise in disposable income and changing lifestyles are contributing to the shift towards processed and ready-to-eat meals, further boosting the demand for food thickeners.

The expanding food and beverage industry in this region, along with a growing preference for functional and fortified food products, is expected to fuel the market for food thickeners. The rapid adoption of Western-style eating habits, combined with increasing urbanization and industrialization, is driving the market growth in Asia Pacific. This region's dynamic food culture, which embraces both traditional and modern food processing methods, continues to present vast opportunities for food thickener manufacturers.

Competitive Landscape and Leading Companies

The food thickeners market is competitive, with several prominent companies striving to enhance their market positions through innovation and product diversification. Key players in the market include Cargill, Inc., Archer Daniels Midland Company, DuPont de Nemours, Inc., Ingredion Incorporated, and Tate & Lyle. These companies are focusing on developing natural, clean-label, and functional food thickeners to meet the growing demand for healthier and more sustainable food ingredients.

The competitive landscape also includes regional players who are expanding their product portfolios to cater to local tastes and preferences. To stay ahead, leading companies are investing in research and development to create thickeners with improved functionality and lower environmental impact. Strategic mergers, acquisitions, and partnerships are common strategies for these companies to enhance their global presence and broaden their product offerings. As consumer demand for healthier and more natural food products continues to rise, the market is expected to see increased innovation and competition, driving the growth of the food thickeners market.

Recent Developments:

• Cargill, Inc. launched a new plant-based thickener to cater to the growing demand for vegan and vegetarian food products, offering a clean label solution for food manufacturers.
• Ingredion Incorporated announced the acquisition of a new starch manufacturing facility to expand its portfolio of food thickeners, focusing on improving its global reach.
• Kerry Group introduced a new range of hydrocolloid thickeners designed to enhance the texture of dairy-based beverages, responding to consumer demand for clean-label options.
• Tate & Lyle PLC completed an expansion of its production capabilities for hydrocolloid-based thickeners, boosting supply for the growing demand in emerging markets.
• DuPont acquired a leading firm specializing in natural thickeners to enhance its portfolio and support the growing preference for clean-label food ingredients.

List of Leading Companies:

• Archer Daniels Midland Company (ADM)
• Ashland Global Holdings Inc.
• BASF SE
• Cargill, Inc.
• CP Kelco
• Dow Chemical Company
• DSM Nutritional Products
• DuPont de Nemours, Inc.
• Glanbia PLC
• Ingredion Incorporated
• Kerry Group
• Lonza Group
• MGP Ingredients, Inc.
• Royal DSM
• Tate & Lyle PLC

Report Scope: